3. Installation
3.1. Configuration
Installing multiple VE Panels, a trough or gutter below the VE panel is a compliant and effective method for wire management in connecting parallel systems.
Knock outs are provided on the sides and bottom of the VE Panels and could be utilized to run wire and data cables via conduit between the systems. Refer to Figures 2 and 3 for examples.
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Figure 1 Conduit Interconnection Example
VE Panel’s in parallel operation can be used with a battery combiner for larger dual Quattro 5k VA inverter/charger systems shown in Figure 15.
3.1.1. Planning
Before proceeding, read the entire Installation section to determine how you are going to install your VE Panel enclosure.
3.1.2. Location
Refer to the dimensional drawings in Figure 2 and 3 to determine an appropriate area to install the VE Panel enclosure and inverter/charger system. The following should be considered:
VE Panel shall be mounted vertically.
Installed indoors in a clean and dry area that is relatively cool environment.
The inverter/charger will pull in air through the intake vents at the bottom of the VE Panel.
In order for the inverter/charger to provide full output power and avoid overtemperature conditions, do not cover or block the VE Panel enclosure ventilation openings or install it in an area with limited airflow. At the minimum, allow 10cm (4”) of clearance to the left and right sides to provide adequate ventilation.
The VE Panel enclosure and inverter/charger system should be located as close to the batteries as possible. This is to ensure the battery cable length is kept as short as possible. Long DC wires tend to lose efficiency and reduce the overall performance of an inverter. However, the VE Panel enclosure, the inverter/charger, and any other equipment that can spark (or that corrosion could damage) should not be installed in the same compartment/room as the batteries or mounted where it will, depending on battery type, be exposed to gases produced by the batteries. These gases are corrosive and will damage this equipment. Also, if these gases are not ventilated and if allowed to collect, they could ignite and cause an explosion.
Consult the MultiPlus or Quattro owner’s manual to determine the proper sized inverter/charger to battery cables for the distance that is used. However, this cable must not be sized any smaller than the minimum size requirement for the DC disconnect breaker in the VEP Panel enclosure. Both VE Panel models require a minimum 0000 (4/0) AWG (107mm²) cable.
Do not install the inverter/charger-VE Panel assembly in any area that contains extremely flammable liquids like gasoline or propane, or in locations that require ignition-protected devices. Sparks from relays, circuit breakers, etc., could ignite the fumes or spills.
Do not block access to the front of the VE Panel enclosure. Maintain at least a 1m (36”) clear space in front to access the AC and DC wiring terminals and connections inside the enclosure, as they will need to be checked and tightened periodically.
Do not mount the VE panel directly above a flooded or sealed lead acid battery bank unless batteries are contained in an enclosure with outside ventilation.
Figure 2 - 3k VE Panel Dimensions
Figure 3 - 5k VE Panel Dimensions
3.2. What's In The Box
Internally pre-wired VE Panel assembly
Charge Controller Bracket (Victron MPPT’s mount separately)
VE Panel Installation Manual
Service and user manual
Sticker Set
3.3. Required Materials and Tools
3.3.1. Materials
Electrical tape
Wire ties
Conductors/cables for wiring
M6 or ¼ inch fasteners
3.3.2. Tools
Screwdriver set
Insulated pliers
Wire cutters/strippers
Drill and drill bits for mounting VE panel
Pencil or marker
Multi-meter
Level
Ratchet and socket Set
Wrench Set
Torque wrenches to include:
Small Torque wrench for DIN Rail circuit breakers such as 2.5 Nm or 20 inch pounds.
Larger torque wrench for battery inverter/charge cables 14Mn or 124 inch pounds.
3.4. Mounting the VE Panel
The Victron inverter/charger should be mounted first to the wall prior to installing the VE Panel. Pay attention to the total height of the system. Refer to the dimensioned drawing in Figure 2 and 3.
Prior to mounting the MultiPlus or Quattro, to improve airflow/circulation, and to provide easy access to the large chassis ground terminal stud, it is necessary to remove the blue fan cover plate. It is required to remove Glands/strain relief on the 5kVA Quattro to remove the blue fan cover plate, and replace. See Figures 4 through 7.
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Figure 4 - 3kVA Blue Fan Cover Plate Installed
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Figure 5 - 3kVA Blue Fan Cover Plate Removed
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Figure 6 - 5kVA Blue Fan Cover Plate Installed
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Figure 7 - 5kVA Blue Fan Cover Plate Removed
3.5. Installing the VE Panel to the Inverter/Charger
To install the VE Panel, remove dead front.
The 4 mounting feet can be accessed through the front of the enclosure to attach to surface with M6 or ¼ inch fasteners.
Attach to vertical surface and use appropriate fasteners to support at least three times the weight of the panel (each panel is @17lbs or 8Kg).